mini cigars vanilla

As a self-proclaimed cigar aficionado, I have always been drawn to the elegant and sophisticated culture surrounding cigars. However, as much as I enjoy indulging in a full-sized cigar, there are times when I just don’t have the time or desire for a lengthy smoking session. That’s when I turn to little cigars.

Little cigars, also known as cigarillos, may be small in size but they pack a flavorful punch. Despite their humble appearance, these miniature cigars have a rich history and loyal following among cigar enthusiasts. In this article, I will delve into the world of little cigars and share my personal experience with these diminutive delights.

What exactly are little cigars?

Simply put, little cigars are small, slender cigars that are typically around 3 inches in length and have a ring gauge of 20 or less (in comparison, a full-sized cigar can be anywhere from 4 to 7 inches long with a ring gauge of 40 or more). They are hand-rolled similar to traditional cigars, using a combination of whole leaf tobacco and reconstituted tobacco for the wrapper. However, unlike traditional cigars, little cigars are usually filled with homogenized tobacco leaf, which gives them a more consistent flavor and texture.

Little cigars come in a variety of flavors and styles, ranging from mild to full-bodied and from natural to flavored. Some popular flavors include vanilla, cherry, and chocolate, while others stick to more traditional tobacco flavors. They are also available in a variety of shapes, such as cigarillo, panatela, and coronita, giving smokers options for different smoking experiences.

History of little cigars

The origins of little cigars can be traced back to the early 19th century, when they were first introduced as a cheaper alternative to traditional cigars. They gained popularity in Europe and eventually made their way to the United States in the late 1800s. In the early 20th century, little cigars were sold in packs of 25 or 50 and were marketed as a quick and affordable smoke for the working class.

During the Prohibition era in the 1920s, little cigars were often used to disguise the illegal sale and consumption of alcohol, as they were small and could easily be hidden in pockets or purses. This only added to their appeal and demand.

In the 1960s, little cigars became popular with the younger generation due to their affordability and convenience. This led to the introduction of flavored little cigars, which appealed to those who were not accustomed to the taste of traditional cigars but still wanted to participate in the cigar-smoking culture.

Today, little cigars continue to have a devoted following and are a staple in many cigar shops and convenience stores.

My personal experience

As someone who has smoked numerous full-sized cigars, I was initially skeptical about little cigars. How could something so small provide the same satisfaction as a traditional cigar? But I was pleasantly surprised.

I first tried little cigars at a friend’s party and was immediately drawn to the variety of flavors and shapes available. I opted for a cherry flavored cigarillo and was delighted by the sweet and smooth taste. The smoking experience was shorter than a traditional cigar, but I still felt like I was enjoying a quality cigar.

Since then, I have tried many different little cigars, and each time I am impressed by the depth of flavor and the convenience. They make for a great quick smoke during a break at work or while running errands. They also make for a great addition to a party, as they are easy to pass around and offer something for everyone.

One of the best things about little cigars is their affordability. While a traditional cigar can range from $5 to $20 or more, a pack of little cigars usually costs around $5 to $10 for a pack of 10 or more. This makes it easier to indulge in a cigar more frequently without breaking the bank.

Another aspect I appreciate about little cigars is their versatility. They are a great option for both experienced cigar smokers and beginners. Experienced smokers can enjoy the rich flavors and convenience, while beginners can ease into the cigar-smoking world with smaller, more approachable cigars.

Final thoughts

In the world of cigars, little cigars often get overlooked in favor of their larger counterparts. However, as someone who has tried both, I can confidently say that little cigars deserve a place in any cigar enthusiast’s rotation.

Their rich history, variety of flavors, and convenience make them a must-try for any cigar lover. So next time you find yourself short on time or wanting to mix things up, give little cigars a chance. You won’t be disappointed.